Lighting a large chroma key drop is not very difficult with
a little attention to detail and a few studio multi-source
instruments. Chroma keying requires a lot of work and
practice to achieve believable results, but the effort is
rewarding. With a fundamental chroma key technique and
proper lighting, you will stand a much better chance of
getting the shot you want.
Lighting the Background
Successful chroma keying requires a lot of light for an
even glow the blue screen with absolutely no shadows. Start
with two large lights, such as 650 ARRI'S. Set them up high
enough on either side of the screen so they cannot
interfere too much with the subject.
This setup can remain fairly constant from shoot to shoot;
you can find a set up you like and use it every time you
have a chroma key shoot. Factors such as interference from
foreground lights can cause problems with this lighting,
but these adjustments can be fixed easily.
When setting up lights, also consider the reflection of
your blue screen. Too much light can cause color bleeding,
which occurs when the blue background reflects onto the
subject. The easiest way to reduce the reflective
properties of the blue screen is by diffusing lights with
amber gels.
Lighting the Foreground
Lighting the subject properly can make the difference
between a seemingly natural or artificial shot. Once your
subject is positioned, place the key light. Know what your
planned background will be, including the direction of the
principal light. The shadows in the background image and
the key light on the subject must correspond.
Also, maintain the separation of the subject lighting and
background lighting. Just as key light cannot interfere
with blue screen lighting, backdrop lighting cannot
interfere with the foreground shot. This can be
accomplished by first moving the subject away from the
background. Start at least three feet away, and try to
create as much distance as possible between the background
and blue screen.
Now incorporate the most crucial elements: a back light and
a kicker. As they would in a normal shot, these help
separate the subject from the background and bring out the
detail that may be lost otherwise. They also serve the
additional function of minimizing spill.
The most effective way to learn about chroma key is through
experimentation. After finding your ideal setup, begin
rearranging and readjusting. Try different lights, bounce
cards and gels. Play with the key light and background
light to come up with new or interesting combinations.
Above all, develop a foundation of patience and preciseness.
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Metro Productions is a full-service video and multimedia
production company headquartered in Virginia. Metro
Productions provides clients with the ability to realize
the benefits of high-end visual media products for the
purpose of sales, marketing, recruitment and training.
Delivery mediums for these productions include DVD,
streaming media and broadcast quality High Definition
applications.
http://www.metro-productions.com
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